2013 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE CONVERTIBLE service

Windshield wiper service position

Fig. 78 Windshield wiper in service position.

After the engine has been switched off, the radiator fan in the engine compartment may keep
running for several minutes, or may start running after the vehicle has been parked for a while, even if
the ignition is switched off and the vehicle key has been removed. The radiator fan shuts off
automatically when the engine has cooled down enough.
Electronic immobilizer
Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
The immobilizer helps to prevent the engine from being started and driven with an unauthorized
vehicle key.
There is a microchip inside the vehicle key. The chip deactivates the immobilizer automatically when
an authorized vehicle key is inserted into the ignition switch.
The electronic immobilizer is automatically activated when the remote control vehicle key is pulled out
of the ignition switch. On vehicles with Keyless Access, the vehicle key must be outside the vehicle
47.
The engine can therefore only be started with an authorized and correctly coded genuine Volkswagen
vehicle key. Coded vehicle keys are available from authorized Volkswagen dealers, authorized
Volkswagen Service Facilities, and from certain independent repair facilities and locksmiths who are
qualified to make these vehicle keys 42.
If an unauthorized vehicle key is used, Immobilizer active! appears in the instrument cluster
display. The vehicle cannot be operated with this key.
A Declaration of Compliance with the United States FCC and Industry Canada regulations is on 269.
Using genuine Volkswagen keys helps minimize the risk of malfunctions.

Fig. 109 Fuel consumption in l/100 km at 2 different outside air temperatures.
Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Driving defensively and economically can easily reduce fuel consumption by 10 to 15%.
The vehicle consumes the most fuel when accelerating. Defensive driving requires less braking and
therefore less acceleration. If possible, coast the vehicle to a stop, for example, when you can see that
the next traffic light is red or about to turn red.
Avoid traveling short distances
A cold engine consumes significantly more fuel immediately after starting. It takes a few miles (km)
before the engine is warmed up and fuel consumption is stabilized.
To reduce fuel consumption and the emission of pollutants effectively, the engine and catalytic
converter must reach their optimal operating temperature. Critical in this context is also the outside
air temperature.
fig. 109 and display the varying fuel consumption rates for the same distance driven, once at +68 °F
(+20 °C) and once at +14 °F (-10 °C).
Therefore, avoid driving short distances unnecessarily and consolidate routes.
Under the same conditions, the vehicle consumes more fuel in winter than in summer.
“Letting the engine run to warm up” is not only illegal in some places, but also technically not
necessary and wastes fuel.
Adjust the tire pressure
The proper tire pressure helps reduce rolling resistance as well as fuel consumption.
When purchasing new tires, always make sure that the tires are optimized for lower rolling resistance.
Use low viscosity engine oil
Fully “synthetic,” low viscosity engine oils that expressly comply with Volkswagen oil quality standards
reduce fuel consumption. Low viscosity engine oils reduce the frictional resistance on the engine and
are distributed more evenly and quickly, particularly when cold-starting the engine. The effect is
particularly apparent in vehicles that frequently travel short distances.
Always ensure the right engine oil level is maintained and keep to the scheduled service intervals
(engine oil changes).
Make sure the engine oil that you purchase expressly complies with Volkswagen oil quality standards
and is the oil approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle.
Avoid unnecessary weight
The lighter the vehicle, the more economical and eco-friendly it will be. For example, an extra 220 lbs
(100 kg) of weight increases fuel consumption by up to 1 pint per 60 miles (0.3 l/100 km).

Lights
up Possible cause Proper response
D
Power steering assist is reduced.
Stop, restart the engine, and drive a short
distance. If the yellow warning light does not
come on again, you do not need to have the
steering system checked.
Otherwise, have the steering checked
immediately by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service
Facility.
Vehicle battery was disconnected and
has been reconnected.
Drive a short distance at about 10–12 mph
(15–20 km/h).


Flashes Possible cause Proper response
D Electronic steering column lock
malfunction.

WARNING
Incorrect tire pressures and/or underinflation can cause sudden tire failure, loss of control,
collision, serious personal injury or even death.
x When the warning symbol appears in the instrument cluster, stop and inspect the tires.
x Incorrect tire pressure and/or underinflation can cause increased tire wear and can affect
the handling of the vehicle and stopping ability.
x Incorrect tire pressures and/or underinflation can also lead to sudden tire failure,
including a blowout and sudden deflation, causing loss of vehicle control.
x The driver is responsible for the correct tire pressures for all tires on the vehicle. The
recommended tire pressure values are listed on a sticker inside the driver door .
x The TPMS can only work correctly when all tires on the vehicle are filled to the correct
cold tire inflation pressure.
x Using incorrect tire pressure values can cause accidents or other damage. Always inflate
the tires to the correct specified cold tire pressure values for the tires installed on the vehicle.
x Always maintain correct cold tire inflation pressure so that TPMS can do its job.
x Always inflate tires to the recommended and correct tire pressure before driving off.
x Driving with underinflated tires causes them to flex (bend) more, letting them get too hot,
resulting in tread separation, sudden tire failure, and loss of control.
x Excessive speed and/overloading can cause heat build-up, sudden tire failure and loss of
control.
x If the tire pressure is too low or too high, the tires will wear prematurely and the vehicle
will not handle well.
x If the tire is not “flat” and you do not have to change a wheel immediately, drive carefully
and at reduced speed to the nearest service station to check the tire pressure and add air as
required.
x When replacing tires or wheel rims on vehicles equipped with TPMS always read and heed
the information and all WARNINGS regarding , Tires and wheels.
x The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated using the SET button whenever
you remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled or
replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire
pressure does not change
WARNING
Improper use of the SET button can cause the TPMS to give false warnings or to give no
warning despite dangerously low tire pressure.
Underinflation increases fuel consumption and tire wear.
Do not rely solely on the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Check your tires regularly to make
sure they are properly inflated and have no signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, cracks, and
blisters. Remove any objects that become embedded in the tire tread but have not penetrated into the
body of tire itself.
When you take delivery of the vehicle, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is calibrated for the
factory-recommended cold tire inflation pressure for the tires on your vehicle, as shown on the label
inside the driver door

When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights come on briefly for a function
check. They go out after a few seconds.
WARNING
Incorrect tire pressures and/or underinflation can cause sudden tire failure, loss of control,
collision, serious personal injury, or even death.
x When the warning symbol Ç appears in the instrument cluster, stop the vehicle as soon as
it is safe to do so and inspect all tires.
x Incorrect tire pressure and/or underinflation can cause increased tire wear and can affect
the handling of the vehicle and its stopping ability.
x Incorrect tire pressure and/or underinflation can also lead to sudden tire failure, including
a blowout and sudden deflation, causing loss of vehicle control.
x The driver is responsible for the correct tire pressures for all tires on the vehicle. The
recommended tire pressure values are listed on a sticker inside the driver door 247.
x The TPMS can only work correctly when all tires on the vehicle are filled to the correct
cold tire inflation pressure. Always maintain the correct cold tire inflation pressure so that
TPMS can do its job.
x Using incorrect tire pressure values can cause accidents or other damage. Check the
pressure in all 4 tires when the tires are still cold. Never reduce air pressure in warm tires to
match cold tire inflation pressure.
x Always inflate the tires to the correct specified cold tire pressure values for the tires
installed on the vehicle; see the tire inflation pressure label on the driver door jamb 242,
Tires and wheels.
x Always inflate tires to the recommended and correct tire pressure before driving off.
x Driving with underinflated tires causes them to flex (bend) more, letting them get too hot,
which can result in tread separation, sudden tire failure, and loss of control.
x Excessive speed and/or overloading can cause heat build-up, sudden tire failure, and loss
of control.
x If the tire pressure is too low or too high, the tires will wear prematurely and the vehicle
will not handle well.
x If the tire is not “flat” and you do not have to change the tire or wheel immediately, drive at
reduced speed to the nearest service station to check the tire pressure and add air as
required.
x When replacing tires or wheel rims on vehicles equipped with TPMS, always read and
heed the information and all WARNINGS in the section 242, Tires and wheels.
x The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated using the SET button whenever
you remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled or
replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire
pressure does not change .
WARNING
Improper use of the SET button can cause the TPMS to give false warnings or to give no
warning despite dangerously low tire pressure

WARNING
Stale air causes driver fatigue and reduces driver alertness, which can cause accidents,
collisions and serious personal injury.
x Never switch off the fan for a long period of time and never use air recirculation for a long
period of time because no fresh air will enter the passenger compartment.
NOTICE
x If you think the air conditioner is not working properly or may be damaged, switch it off to
help prevent more damage. Have the air conditioner checked by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
x Air conditioner repair requires specialized knowledge and special tools. Volkswagen
recommends that you see an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen
Service Facility.
x Do not smoke when air recirculation is switched on. Smoke drawn into the ventilation
system can leave residue on the evaporator and on the dust and pollen active carbon filter,
resulting in permanent odors whenever the air conditioner is switched on.
If the air conditioner is switched off, the fresh outside air will not be dehumidified. To help keep
the windows from fogging over, Volkswagen recommends leaving the air conditioner (compressor)
switched on. Press the !

x There is another malfunction in the vehicle. Have the air conditioner checked by an authorized
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Special considerations
When it is very hot and humid outside, water condensation can drip from the air conditioner
evaporator and form a puddle under the vehicle. This is normal and does not indicate a leak.
The climate control system adjusts the passenger compartment temperature as fast as possible
considering the outside temperature.
Due to residual moisture in the air conditioner, the windshield may fog up after the engine is
started. Switch on the windshield defroster to help evaporate the condensation as quickly as possible.
The air coming out of the vents flows through the passenger compartment and out through the
vents under the rear window. Do not cover these slots with clothing or other things.
Air vents

Fig. 113 In the instrument panel: Air vents.
Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Air vents
To help ensure sufficient heating, cooling and ventilation in the passenger compartment, never close
the air vents completely ⇒ fig. 113 (1).
x To open and close the air vents, turn the respective thumbwheel in the desired direction. When the
thumbwheel is in the ¡ position, the air vent is closed.
x Use the lever on the vent grille to adjust the airflow direction.
Additional, non-adjustable air vents are located in the instrument panel (2), in the footwells, as well as
in the rear area of the passenger compartment.
NOTICE
Do not place food, medications, or other heat-sensitive things in front of the air vents. Food,
medications, and other things that are sensitive to heat or cold can be damaged or made
unusable by the air flow from the vents.